Parked vehicles impede snowplowing

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Marc Lane
  • 28 Bomb Wing Public Affairs
ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. --  Over the past few weeks, snow plows had difficulty maneuvering through base housing due to residents parking their vehicles on the street during inclement weather.

The immediate removal of vehicles from the street is important not only because residents can receive a citation, but also because this will allow plows to remove snow faster.

"Vehicles defiantly inhibit our snow removal operations," said Master Sgt. Kevin Holman, 28th Civil Engineer Squadron NCO in charge of horizontal construction. "After the Nov. 5 blizzard, two vehicles covered in snow were hit by plows because they were not removed from the road." 

According to the Ellsworth Supplement to Air Force Instruction 31-204, Air Force Motor Vehicle Traffic Supervision:

· All vehicles will be removed from the roadway in military family housing areas upon declaration of a snow advisory or winter weather warning, or when directed by competent authority.
· Vehicles not removed from the roadway will be towed at the owner's expense.
· The United States Air Force and 28th Bomb Wing do not assume any risk, responsibility, or liability for any damage to vehicles occurring from snow removal or towing operations when vehicle owners are in violation of this provision.

Additionally, the Ellsworth Family Housing Brochure reminds Airmen to park in the driveway or garage, if leaving on an extended temporary assignment or deployment. 

"Parked cars pose a hazard to the operator and the snow plow," said Staff Sgt. Brandon Cruz, 28 BW Ground Safety technician. "Parked cars also hinder proper snow removal and safe travel for all emergency vehicles responding to alert situations." 

Questions on winter weather parking procedures may be directed to the Ellsworth Snow Barn at (605) 385-2209.